I was shocked to see that the Oregon Legislature and Government Ethics Commission were considering lifting the existing $50 gift cap. Should special interests be allowed to give Oregon officials expensive presents? On January 30, lawmakers contemplate.
I held positions in both the federal and local governments. At every level of work, it is made plain that presents are strictly prohibited, if not flatly prohibited. None of our lawmakers have any justification for accepting gifts from anybody. This just gives the impression that something is improper.
The Citizens United ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2010 has permitted an unrestricted amount of money to be invested in our national elections. In addition to the ethical issues with the U.S. Supreme Court, we are left to question the true purpose of our elected and appointed officials.
Why should Oregon pursue that course? Please do not alter the existing prohibition.
Ellis, Troutdale, Eileen
Visit regonlive.com/opinion to read further letters to the editor.
